Sustainable Management and Climate Adaptation in Historic Sites: Insights from Side Ancient City

Climate change presents an increasing threat to cultural heritage, causing direct physical damage and accelerated material deterioration. This study focuses on the Side Ancient City in Antalya, a culturally and archeologically significant site vulnerable to climate-induced risks. As a popular tourist destination, Side faces a complex blend of environmental, social, and economic challenges, requiring a nuanced understanding of climate impacts. The study aims to identify the risks posed by climate change in Side and to develop strategies for protection and adaptation. Using a qualitative research approach, the study combined a literature review and field analysis to assess the site’s vulnerabilities. In the field analysis, historical structures and archaeological sites on the Side were observed within the scope of the impacts of climate change, and the necessary data were collected. Then, a SWOT analysis evaluated the Side’s current condition and resilience against climate change. In the subsequent step, the adaptation strategies were formulated and a Matrix was developed to illustrate the connections between climate impacts, SWOT components, and the corresponding adaptation strategies. Based on these findings, the study proposed various adaptation strategies, including physical interventions, regulatory policies for development and tourism, and community-driven approaches for sustainable heritage management. These recommendations aim to protect Side’s cultural heritage from ongoing and future climate-related threats and contribute to broader discussions on adapting historic sites to climate change.